Harbor Freight Plasma Cutter Problem

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I have a Chicago Electric plasma cutter model 95136.  I exchanged the machine when the first one showed no change in the digital amp read-out.  It stayed stuck on 15.  I called the tech support, but they were unable to help me.  All they could do was read a computer prompt, but they could find no information.  The replacement did the same thing so I thought it must be user error.  And yet it has an amp range of 15-40 and the suggested number is 30.  The manual simply says turn the knob to desired setting.  When I turn the knob (both machines) it flickers a bit but stays on 15.  I am not getting clean cuts or blow through.  Since I am a novice I don't know what to think.  I bought Harbor Freight because of $.  Now I am wondering if I made a mistake.  The local manager said he would call back four hours ago.  My local Air Gas dealer recommends a Thermal Dynamics.  I am ready to demand a refund from Harbor Freight, but I am also wondering if I am over-looking something simple.Dave Archer
Reply:I'd just get the refund, and be firm about not wanting another one, just get the refund.They are just not worth the hassles. I'll not get into it, just suffice to say go with the name brands that are proven. Save your money up, and buy right the first time.And then, after so much work...... you have it in your hand, and you look over to your side...... and the runner has run off. Leaving you holding the prize, wondering when the runner will return.
Reply:darcher....have you got sufficient air supply people say they need a decent cfm to operate .
Reply:Where are you located? Maybe someone could offer help. I am in Cincinnati. I have used a few and TD is a good one. I have a Hypertherm and love it.
Reply:mine wont do shat , until the airpressure's right.....!        thermal arc 252i  -  millermatic 350P -   miller XMT, cp300ts, 30a 22a feeders, buttload of other millers, handfull of lincolns, couple of esabs  -   Hypertherm 1250 G3
Reply:I agree with Rojo, this equipment is an investment so buy good equipment. You get what you pay for. There is nothing good at harbor freight except maybe inspection mirrors.UA Local 598
Reply:If you can get hold of the tech support guys in CA, they know the product and can help you.  But the guys on the east coast are next to nothing in their knowledge.Esab Migmaster 250Lincoln SA 200Lincoln Ranger 8Smith Oxy Fuel setupEverlast PowerPlasma 80Everlast Power iMIG 160Everlast Power iMIG 205 Everlast Power iMIG 140EEverlast PowerARC 300Everlast PowerARC 140STEverlast PowerTIG 255EXT
Reply:if you have a dial which I assume you do, it should have a listing from lowest setting to highest setting. If the digital readout doesn't work, don't worry about it. Simply use the setting on the dial. I have a 3-1 machine that has the same issue and all I do is set my machine by the dial and not the digital readout. It is no big deal. Also make sure your air pressure is set right and that you grind to shiny metal where you place your grounding clamp. Plasmas really need a solid ground. The gun can shoot through rust and paint, but the ground NEEDS good contact. You should also get a moisture filter for it if it did not come with one.
Reply:[QUOTE=darcher;364018]I have a Chicago Electric plasma cutter model 95136.  I exchanged the machine when the first one showed no change in the digital amp read-out.  It stayed stuck on 15.  I called the tech support, but they were unable to help me.  All they could do was read a computer prompt, but they could find no information.  The replacement did the same thing so I thought it must be user error.  And yet it has an amp range of 15-40 and the suggested number is 30.  The manual simply says turn the knob to desired setting.  When I turn the knob (both machines) it flickers a bit but stays on 15.  I am not getting clean cuts or blow through.  Since I am a novice I don't know what to think.  I bought Harbor Freight because of $.  Now I am wondering if I made a mistake.  The local manager said he would call back four hours ago.  My local Air Gas dealer recommends a Thermal Dynamics.  I am ready to demand a refund from Harbor Freight, but I am also wondering if I am over-looking something simple.Dave Archer
Reply:Gentlemen, thank you.  The manager refunded my money with no problems.  As suggested I am buying an American product at Air-Gas.  The air setting was good advice.  From this site I had already learned to keep water filtered out.  Man, those are pricey filters at close to a $100 bucks.  I love my Lincoln mig and spool gun for aluminum welding, but the community classes that I took for welding did not have a workable plasma cutter so I had no experience going into plasma cutting.  Nonetheless, I did make a nice Garden Angel trellis for the wife.  I feel a little sheepish asking professionals such a simple question, and I hope that I did not inspire the thread "Six-dollar Haircut."  I waited thirty five years to retire and work with my hands in my own shop.  I am loving it!
Reply:Just in case no one told you the 95136 won't give you the amp readout untill you start to cut. If you pull the trigger on the torch in the air it will always read 15. Sorry no one on here new that. And I only pay $8 for my hair cuts.Last edited by mechanic416; 03-06-2010 at 06:50 PM.
Reply:DArcher, the place isn't called "Horrible Fright" for nothing ....... although the little 110v MIG I picked up there last year is still going strong.